If you've been looking for precise, detailed sound reproduction, you've found it in this fantastic mic from Shure. The SM81 is a world-standard for choir and overhead cymbal applications. Its ruler-flat frequency response can be modified via a bass roll-off switch. A unidirectional design captures all the sound you could want and more.
Shure SM81 Instrument Condenser Microphone at a Glance:
- Small-diaphragm design with a uniform cardioid pickup pattern
- Flat, 20-20,000Hz frequency response
- Switchable onboard -10dB pad
- Low RF susceptibility
- Selectable low-frequency response — flat, 6/octave, or 18dB/octave rolloff
- Rugged steel construction for durability
- Requires +48V phantom power
What Shure Says...
The Shure SM81 is a high-quality, unidirectional condenser microphone designed for studio recording, broadcasting, and sound reinforcement. Its wide frequency response, low noise characteristics, and low RF susceptibility have made it a standard for applications involving acoustic instruments, especially guitar, piano, and cymbals.
Shure SM81 Small-diaphragm Condenser Microphone Features:
- 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response
- Flat response curve for accurate reproduction of sound sources
- Low noise and high output clipping level
- Low distortion over a wide range of load impedances
- Cardioid polar pattern, uniform with frequency and symmetric about axis, providing maximum rejection and minimum coloration of off-axis sounds
- Low RF susceptibility
- Selectable low-frequency response: flat, 6 or 18 dB/octave rolloff
- 0 dB/10 dB lockable attenuator switch
- Phantom powering (DIN 45 596 voltages of 12 to 48 Vdc)
- Rugged steel construction for durability
- Field-usable over wide range of temperature and humidity conditions
The Shure SM81 is a pro choice for acoustic instrument miking!
| Microphone Type |
Condenser |
| Polar Pattern |
Cardioid |
| Frequency Response |
20Hz-20kHz |
| Max SPL |
136dB (146dB w/Pad) |
| Output Impedance |
150 ohms |
| Signal to Noise Ratio |
78dB |
| Self Noise |
16dB (A weighted) |
| Low Cut Filter |
80Hz (-18dB/octave), 100Hz (-6dB/octave) |
| Pads |
-10dB |
| Connector |
XLR |
| Weight |
1.63 lbs. |
| Manufacturer Part Number |
SM81-LC |
